RoboStarter – Making Robotics Accessible and Fun for Everyone

Getting started with robotics can sometimes feel challenging, especially for young students and first-time participants. That’s why we created RoboStarter, a set of easy-to-use and flexible robotics activities designed to help newcomers take their first steps into robotics in a fun, approachable way. These activities provide a friendly introduction to robotics fundamentals, helping teams build confidence before progressing to official WRO competitions.

Important: RoboStarter concepts are entry-level activities, not official WRO competition categories. They can be freely adapted by National Organizers to best suit local needs.

Demonstration of our WRO sumo concept

Currently, we offer four engaging RoboStarter concepts to support diverse interests and skill levels:

• RoboStarter Sumo
  • 1 vs. 1 robot competition aiming to gently push the opposing robot out of a marked area.
  • Different levels, from remote-controlled to fully autonomous robots.
  • Simple, adaptable gameplay suitable for beginners.
• RoboStarter Training
  • Robotics training using printable tiles for creating customized line-following challenges.
  • A no-pressure activity designed to develop basic skills and confidence at your own pace.

• RoboStarter Innovators
  • Short, project-based activities inspired by our Future Innovators category.
  • Teams learn robot building, coding, and basic project research within a single or a few days.
  • A fun, collaborative environment where every participant succeeds.
• RoboStarter Kids
  • Friendly robotics challenges specifically designed for younger children, utilizing robotic platforms that are available in our countries around the world simple robots.
  • Tasks based on seasonal themes, offering multiple attempts and starting positions to ensure success.

We actively support our National Organizers to introduce RoboStarter activities in their countries by providing tailored guidance, resources, and organizational support. In 2025, 10 selected countries will receive direct assistance to implement RoboStarter activities, more countries will be supported next year. This helps build local robotics communities, making WRO accessible to even more young people worldwide.

We’re continually improving RoboStarter with new features and resources, including:

•  An official RoboStarter certification system recognizing participants’ achievements.
•  More RoboStarter concepts tailored to our community’s evolving needs, such as virtual robotics activities and other fun, game-based robotics challenges.

Through RoboStarter, we’re dedicated to fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment that encourages more students to explore robotics and STEM.

The WRO Learn initiative is one of three projects supported by Aramco, our Global Innovation Partner. Aramco’s expertise and resources help enrich our programs, drive innovation, and support our National Organizers in making WRO successful worldwide.